Going by Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, which is often portrayed as a pyramid, shelter is a physiological need or a physical requirement for human survival. Without meeting these basic needs, the human body will ultimately fail.

Our homes are more frequently a sense of security and roofs are the front line of defense. They protect us from the surrounding elements and the ever-changing, unpredictable weather conditions. Our roofs are the shields that Spartans yield.

As much as our roofs protect us, it is key to be aware and help protect them. It is important to keep these key factors in mind to increase your roof’s longevity.

Fallen Tree or Tree Branches

Trees are nature’s way of showing a tangible growth. They are beautiful. They can change. They can die and be reborn again. They can also be a minor inconvenience to causing some serious damage to your home where you would need a full roof replacement.

Tree debris can create barriers and cause improper draining. Fallen branches can damage and crack shingles or create holes and cracking. Fallen leaves during the changing of the seasons can leave behind heavy, clogging debris in gutters. Let’s not forget to mention that old trees can snap or break and come crashing down or go through your home.

Being aware of a few essential things can really set your mind at ease when it comes to your surrounding trees. Be mindful and maintain your rooftops. Always tend your gutters, keeping them free of debris and other objects that pose a possible blockage. Trim back tree branches away from the house so chances of falling branches or trees become less likely.

Without these simple maintenance and upkeep you are more susceptible to cracks and leaks, which can lead to mold and mildew growth. Mold and mildew can invade carpets, furniture and even clothing.

Black mold poses serious health issues from nasal congestions to rhinitis to inflammations and asthma. What you should also consider is leaks can be the cause of a fire threat if not a fire hazard for electrical wiring. Depending on length or size of the leak, it can shorten the wiring out. It is best to turn off the electric and contact a professional contractor and electrician to do a thorough inspection.

Ice and Snow on Your Roof

Let’s be honest, on a cold winter day as you look out your front window, sipping your blistering hot coffee staring at each unique and majestic snowflake fall, a small sense of anxiety builds in your head and in your heart.

Roofs are structurally sound and built to combat snow but as it collects in large quantities the amount of weight increases and ultimately, worst-case scenario, could potentially cause a collapse. Not to mention, the real evil mastermind, which comes with snow…ice. Ice can make your roof extremely vulnerable. All the freezing and thawing wears down your roof’s integrity and can cause shingles to crack, warp, or even become loose, leading to roof leaks. You also have to check for ice buildups or ice dams which can leak into your attic.

It is always a good tip to be mindful of keeping your roof clear of any branches and leaves or any other collected debris. These things add to the overall weight and keeping gutters cleaned reduces the chance of clogging drainage patterns. Really, you want to reduce any outside strain to the roof. It’s good to regular check attics for any sudden changes, such as water stains, dark spots or any bulging.

Ideally you want to catch a leak early making it that much easier to get it taken care of and resolved so that the problem can be fixed quickly.

Tumultuous Winds

We have all experienced stormy seasons with howling winds whipping around like a whirlwind. These beatings to your roof can tear shingles right off. Even the slightest of persistent wind can rip to shreds these shingles when they are loose.  The wind gets below and pushes them up and off.  There are protective granules but does not protect it from everything.

It is key to do constant roof maintenance. Look closely at corners and perimeters. Most rips and tears start at the edge. It is wise to evaluate your roof after strong forces of wind or a drastic change in wind pressure, during powerful forces of winds or when it reaches hurricane speeds. The incessant force will significantly challenge the durability of your roof causing the curling of shingles.

Another thing is to keep a keen eye on is for flying debris from trees. Scope out the entire roof for patches or several blisters or wrinkles. It is also a good idea to watch for buckling around roof penetrations.

After heavy winds, be cautious of chimney leaning, loosing, missing, flashing ot damaged bricks. Make sure the chimney cap is intact and inspect for any cracked joints. Chimney flashing is especially prone to tearing. It doesn’t hurt to search for any moisture marks, any brown, yellow or gray stains.

Any issues that arise get fixed immediately. The longer you wait the more damage can be done and the more expensive it gets to fix or replace the problem.

When having a professional assess the damages it is good to ask for a business license, proof of insurance, any certificates, a permanent business address and a Better Business Bureau rating. Some “fly by night” companies come out of the woodwork after a major storm and it is a good practice to get a highly trained and reputable professional.

The Scary Sight of Pests and Vermin

Chances are in your neat and tidy abode; there are thousands of creepy crawlies digging around.  It is no secret that pests love to nest.  The problem is when they choose to move in with you without splitting the mortgage.

Before writing this into “ The Attack of the Gargantuan Spider Creature and the Night of the Terrifying Termites,” having unexpected guests can be a real nightmare. Between the scraping, scratching and scurrying these unwanted critters can feel as though they are buried underneath your skin.

Pests can come in all shapes and sizes from squirrels to bats, birds to spiders, stink bugs to mice, rats and ants. They can chew through electrical wiring, create structural damage and some vermin even carry diseases. It’s best to have professionals assess the situation for the threat of infestations.

Any weakness under shingles or possible roofing holes need to be taken care for immediately before repairs or replacements become too expensive to manage. It’s good to be fully aware of any damaged, missing, broken or torn shingles.

Some Additional Concerns To List

There are many other concerns to be conscious of that are worth mentioning are poor or faulty installations.  The type of roofing material can greatly increase problems of the expectancy of your roof. You want to make sure a licensed professional installs your roof correctly.

Another concern would be punctures and penetrations, which can occur during storms. Also, having enough ventilation is an integral part of making your roof last. Without adequate ventilation to regulate moisture levels and specific temperatures, heat and moisture can build up and wreak havoc on shingles, insulation, sheathing and rafters.

Shrinkage occurs under the tiles or shingles, causing the roof membrane to shrink and crack. Also consider looking for ridging, splitting and surface erosion to shingles.

Ponding water is a common term for water that ‘ponds’ or pools on your roof caused by improper drainage or debris buildup.

Sometimes simply walking on your roof can cause significant damage. Some people install a double layer of roofing materials to create walkways.

Final Take Away

Whether a flat roof, metal roof or shingle roof, check frequently and be thorough. Being aware of what’s up there could save you from serious repairs.

Make it a point to do regular maintenance to your roof and expand the longevity of your roof’s permanence.